How are we feeling, Colts fans? Will Indianapolis rebound in Week 2 against the expected Jordan Love-less Packers?
Welcome to SB Nation Reacts, a survey of fans across the NFL. Throughout the year we ask questions of the most plugged-in Indianapolis Colts fans and fans across the country. Sign up here to participate in the weekly emailed surveys.
The Indianapolis Colts (0-1) (-3.5) travel to historic Lambeau Field to take on the Green Bay Packers (also 0-1)—with both teams looking to rebound from Week 1.
It’s looking increasingly likely that the Packers will be without promising young starting quarterback Jordan Love—who suffered a sprained MCL in the opener against the Philadelphia Eagles, and is expected to be out for at least a few weeks.
Meanwhile, the Colts have dynamic 2nd-year starting quarterback Anthony Richardson back fully healthy again for what will be his 6th career start. Despite some growing pains and initial rust, Richardson showcased what makes him such a special talent on some truly improbable deep throws.
For the Colts, they’ll want to run the ball better than in Week 1, when star workhorse Jonathan Taylor was limited to just 48 yards on 16 carries (3.0 ypc. avg.), as well as stop the run more effectively—as Houston Texans veteran running back Joe Mixon gashed them for 159 total rush yards (averaging 5.3 yards per carry).
The Colts run defense will have to be more alert likely facing the dual-threat Malik Willis filling in at starting quarterback for Love. During his limited prior starts in 2022 for the Tennessee Titans, Willis looked raw as a pocket passer, but dangerous as a runner—so the Colts will have to be ready for the difference in his quarterback skill-set compared to Love.
One big addition for the Colts offense this week could be the return of starting slot wideout Josh Downs, who assuredly could help Richardson in the short-to-intermediate passing game. His status remains uncertain for Sunday, as the Colts are seeing how he’ll progress this week in practice from a high-ankle sprain suffered during early training camp.
How are we feeling for Week 2, Colts fans?
